Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion
Heraklion, Greece

Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion

Outty Ranking 55 4.0 · 1 traveler reviews7 hoursFrom $45
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Outty Ranking

55/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.0/5

Based on 1 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion worth booking?

Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion is a 7-hour experience in Heraklion, Greece, from $45 per person. It scores 55 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4/5 rating across 1 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
55 / 100
Rating
4/5 (1)
Duration
7 hours
From
$45 per person

We reach the famous beach of Matala. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbor. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s - 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs. Here we will enjoy the crystal waters, the warm sun and lunch by the sea, while later we can explore the prehistoric caves, carved on the steep rocks of the area.

What you get

    About this experience

    We reach the famous beach of Matala. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbor. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s - 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs. Here we will enjoy the crystal waters, the warm sun and lunch by the sea, while later we can explore the prehistoric caves, carved on the steep rocks of the area.

    What's included

    Included

    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Hotel pick-up and drop off Malia,Stalis,Hersonisos,Anissaras,Gouves,Heraklion,Ammoudara,Ag Pelagia
    • Professional guide English, German and French

    Not included

    • Food and drinks
    • Personal expenses

    What you'll see and do

    1. Matala Beach

      We reach the famous beach of Matala. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbor. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s - 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs. Here we will enjoy the crystal waters, the warm sun and lunch by the sea, while later we can explore the prehistoric caves, carved on the steep rocks of the area.

      360 minutes here

    2. Matala Caves

      We reach the famous beach of Matala. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbor. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s - 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs. Here we will enjoy the crystal waters, the warm sun and lunch by the sea, while later we can explore the prehistoric caves, carved on the steep rocks of the area.

      60 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • Pickup from Malia, Stalis

      Pickup: Pickup from Malia, Stalis, Hersonisos, Analipsi, and Gouves Pickup included

    • Pickup from Heraklion

      Pick up: Pickup from Heraklion and Ammoudara Pickup included

    • Pickup from Agia Pelagia

      Pick up: Pickup from Agia Pelagia, Lygaria and Fodele Pickup included

    • Pick up from Sissi

      Pick up from Sissi Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    de, en, fr
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Mon, Thu
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    PLATANOS TOURS

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

    Photos

    Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion, photo 2Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion, photo 3Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion, photo 4Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion, photo 5Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion, photo 6Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion, photo 7

    Traveler reviews

    1 verified traveler reviews for Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    0
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Kimberly H · June 2026

    Beautiful and fun for an afternoon

    Was very much beautiful to see. Nice experience and beautiful culture to see.

    Response from the operator: thank you for the review

    via Tripadvisor (translated)

    Good to know

    Duration
    7 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Thu
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    0
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by PLATANOS TOURS, who run 38 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 55.5.

    See everything PLATANOS TOURS runs

    Why this scores 55

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)69
    Review evidence (18% weight)11
    Booking momentum (14% weight)0
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)83
    Local standing (8% weight)46
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Heraklion.

    How much does Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion cost?

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    Prices start at $45 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Heraklion usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion take?

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    Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Heraklion is not rushed.

    Is Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 55 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4/5 across 1 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Heraklion, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion?

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    Around 0 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Heraklion can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Heraklion and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Heraklion within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Heraklion?

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    On Outty we rank every Heraklion experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory, Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Zeus Cave, Villages, Olive Oil Tour, Quad Safari: Off-Road Day Tour with Dinner & Transfers. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Heraklion?

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    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Heraklion?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion?

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    Included: In-vehicle air conditioning; Hotel pick-up and drop off Malia,Stalis,Hersonisos,Anissaras,Gouves,Heraklion,Ammoudara,Ag; and Professional guide English, German and French. Not included: Food and drinks; and Personal expenses. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion include hotel pickup?

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    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 283 listed pickup locations in and around Heraklion. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time.

    What languages is Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion offered in?

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    It is offered in German, English and French. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Heraklion. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What booking options are available for Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion?

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    There are 4 options to choose from, including Pickup from Malia, Stalis, Pickup from Heraklion, Pickup from Agia Pelagia, Pick up from Sissi. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Half Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves From Heraklion.

    Pick your date